Meta looks to nuclear energy
Meta is exploring the use of nuclear energy, specifically small modular reactors (SMRs), to power its data centers as it grapples with the rising energy demands fueled by artificial intelligence (AI). Traditional data centers require around 32 megawatts of power, but those optimized for AI can demand up to 80 megawatts. SMRs, with their compact design and efficiency, offer a potential solution to this challenge. However, significant hurdles remain, including regulatory approvals, high costs, and concerns over nuclear waste and safety.
Companies like Oklo, a California-based nuclear firm, are preparing SMR designs for deployment, claiming readiness to meet the growing energy needs of the tech industry. Meanwhile, experts are divided, with some advocating for renewables as a safer, more cost-effective alternative. In the UK and elsewhere, nuclear power's adoption for data centers may face delays, but the push for sustainable energy sources underscores the urgency of meeting the power demands of the digital age.
